TL;DR
Hiroshima by John Hersey recounts the harrowing experiences of six survivors of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima, illustrating the devastating impact on their lives.
What is Hiroshima about
Hiroshima is a profound and moving account by John Hersey that chronicles the experiences of six survivors of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Through the lives of a clerk, a widowed seamstress, a physician, a Methodist minister, a young surgeon, and a German Catholic priest, Hersey provides a visceral depiction of the immediate aftermath and the long-term consequences of this catastrophic event. Published originally in 1946, the book was later updated with a final chapter that revisits these individuals decades later, offering insights into their ongoing struggles and the enduring impact of the bomb.
Hiroshima 5 Key Takeaways
The Immediate Aftermath
Hersey vividly describes the chaos, destruction, and desperate search for survival in the hours and days following the bomb. His detailed accounts emphasize the profound physical and emotional trauma experienced by the survivors.
Personal Narratives
By focusing on the stories of six individuals, Hersey personalizes the tragedy, highlighting their diverse backgrounds and the unique ways in which the bomb altered their lives.
Long-term Consequences
The book explores the lingering effects of radiation sickness, poverty, and social ostracism that the survivors faced, illustrating the bomb's enduring impact on their health and well-being.
Moral and Ethical Reflections
Hersey prompts readers to consider the moral and ethical implications of using atomic weapons, raising questions about the justification and human cost of such unprecedented destruction.
The Resilience of the Human Spirit
Despite the immense suffering, Hersey's narrative is also a testament to human resilience and the capacity for recovery and rebuilding in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Top Hiroshima Quotes
- 'But pain grew in intensity. The others who were hurt began to scream and moan.'
- 'He was the only person ... to be completely unhurt. The feeling was the same that he might have had if he had been picked up and thrown from one side of the room to the other.'
Who should read Hiroshima?
Hiroshima is essential reading for anyone interested in World War II, the ethics of warfare, and human survival in the face of tragedy. High school students, historians, and those seeking a deeper understanding of the personal impact of historical events will find it particularly compelling.
Hiroshima Best Reviews
- The New York Times called 'Hiroshima' 'a classic of modern journalism ... It is narrative journalism at its best, combining the power of storytelling with the rigor of reportage.'
- The Guardian praised the book for its 'unflinching detail and emotional depth,' noting that Hersey's 'empathetic yet objective writing brings the human cost of the atomic bomb into stark relief.'
People also liked these summaries
Hiroshima FAQs
What is the main idea of the book 'Hiroshima'?
The main idea of 'Hiroshima' is to illustrate the horrific damage, injury, and misery caused by the atomic bomb and the long-term impact on the survivors.
What reading level is 'Hiroshima' by John Hersey?
According to the Scholastic Corporation, the grade level for John Hersey's 'Hiroshima' is 9th - 12th grade, suitable for high school students aged 14 - 18.
What is the message of 'Hiroshima' by John Hersey?
The message of 'Hiroshima' is the survival of individuals and the profound effects of war on civilians. It highlights the moral and physical consequences associated with total war.